Final answer:
The statement that PCR can amplify one segment of DNA from a mixture is true. PCR uses primers to specifically amplify a target DNA sequence, making it a powerful tool in many scientific applications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'PCR can amplify one segment of DNA from a mixture' is true. The process of polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, is a technique utilized to amplify a specific DNA segment. By using short pieces of DNA known as primers that are complementary to each end of the target sequence, PCR can isolate and make millions of copies of the targeted DNA sequence. This is particularly useful for a variety of applications, including medical diagnostics, forensics, and research studies.
PCR is an essential tool in genetic analysis because it requires only a very small amount of DNA to separate and analyze DNA fragments. The development of this technique garnered Kary B. Mullis a Nobel Prize in 1993 due to its profound impact on the scientific community. The amplification process includes the denaturation of the DNA, annealing of primers, and extension by DNA polymerase to create copies of the desired DNA fragment.